Top 10 Catamarans 2017 — Best Overall + Best Value

1Lagoon 450 F Catamaran

The Lagoon 450 F earns the top spot for its unmatched balance of volume, sailing manners, and resale strength in the 2017 market. At 45 feet, it offers a flybridge helm, four-cabin layout, and 900 square feet of sail area. Twin 45hp Yanmar diesels push it near 8 knots, and the 1,200-liter fuel capacity supports long passages. Build quality from CNB Bordeaux remains consistent.

This cat suits liveaboard cruisers and charter operators who want proven systems and easy crew handling. It trades pure performance for comfort, losing a knot or two upwind versus lighter designs. Compared to the Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 just below, the Lagoon offers more interior volume but slightly heavier helm feel. Buyers prioritizing resale value rarely regret the 450 F.

2Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 Catamaran

The Helia 44 ranks second for blending spirited sailing with generous living space in a 44-foot package. Its 1,100-square-foot sail plan and 10.8-ton displacement deliver responsive upwind performance. The raised helm station gives excellent visibility, and four cabins each have ensuite heads. Twin 40hp Volvo Penta engines cruise at 7.5 knots. The 2017 model refined the galley and cockpit flow.

This cat targets performance-minded cruisers who still want charter-friendly layouts. It trades some storage volume for lighter weight and faster passages. Against the Lagoon 450 F above, the Helia is quicker but carries less tankage and fewer luxury touches. Against the Leopard 45 below, it feels more nimble but offers less protected helm.

3Leopard 45 Catamaran

The Leopard 45 takes third for its innovative forward cockpit and robust bluewater construction by Robertson and Caine. The 2017 redesign added a forward lounge accessed through the saloon, plus a flybridge with dual helm stations. Four cabins and four heads sleep eight comfortably. Twin 45hp Yanmar engines and 700-liter fuel capacity support island hopping. Sail area reaches 1,200 square feet.

This cat is built for charter fleets and long-distance cruisers wanting durability. It trades sleek aesthetics for boxy volume and easy maintenance. Compared to the Helia 44 above, the Leopard is heavier but more protected and better for rough conditions. Compared to the Bali 4.5 below, it offers fewer open-plan novelties but more proven offshore pedigree.

4Bali 4.5 Catamaran

The Bali 4.5 ranks fourth for its radical open-space design that eliminates the traditional saloon bulkhead. The tilting forward door creates a continuous living area from cockpit to bow. At 45 feet, it offers four cabins and a huge flybridge. Twin 45hp Nanni engines deliver 8-knot cruising. The 800-liter fuel tank and 800-liter water tank suit extended cruising. Sail area measures 1,150 square feet.

This cat appeals to entertainers and liveaboards who prioritize social space over sailing purity. It trades upwind performance for interior volume and ventilation. Against the Leopard 45 above, the Bali is more open but less proven in heavy weather. Against the Lagoon 46 below, it offers a bolder layout but fewer refined finishes. Charter guests love the indoor-outdoor flow.

5Lagoon 46 Catamaran

The Lagoon 46 secures fifth for its refined flybridge and improved hull design over the outgoing 450. Launched in 2017, it features a larger cockpit, better weight distribution, and 1,250 square feet of sail area. Four cabins with ensuite heads sleep eight. Twin 57hp Yanmar engines cruise at 8.5 knots. The 1,040-liter fuel capacity supports transatlantic passages. Interior volume rivals many 50-foot cats.

This cat suits owners upgrading from smaller Lagoons who want more space without a skipper. It trades agility for stability and load-carrying capacity. Compared to the Bali 4.5 above, the Lagoon 46 is more conservative but better finished. Compared to the Nautitech 46 Open below, it offers more enclosed comfort but less sailing feel. It remains a charter favorite worldwide.

6Nautitech 46 Open Catamaran

The Nautitech 46 Open ranks sixth for its sporty sailing character and twin-helm cockpit layout. At 46 feet, it weighs just 10.5 tons, making it one of the lighter cats in its class. The 1,200-square-foot sail plan and optional carbon rig deliver fast passages. Twin 50hp Volvo Penta engines push it to 9 knots. Four cabins offer comfortable accommodation. The open transom design aids boarding and swimming.

This cat targets sailors who want monohull-like feel and visibility from either helm. It trades interior volume for performance and simplicity. Against the Lagoon 46 above, the Nautitech is faster but less luxurious below deck. Against the Excess 15 below, it offers similar sportiness but more established build quality. Owners who prioritize sailing joy over floating apartments choose this.

7Excess 15 Catamaran

The Excess 15 enters at seventh for bringing performance-cruising DNA to a 48-foot platform with pulse-raising sail area. Launched in 2017, it features a 1,400-square-foot sail plan, twin helms, and a lightweight 12.5-ton displacement. Twin 57hp Yanmar engines cruise at 8 knots. Four cabins with shared heads sleep eight. The nacelle design keeps weight low and centralized for better balance.

This cat appeals to younger buyers wanting speed and style over traditional luxury. It trades joinery quality and storage for agility and open sightlines. Compared to the Nautitech 46 Open above, the Excess 15 is larger but less refined. Compared to the FP Astrea 42 below, it offers more performance but fewer charter-proven systems. It suits owner-operators who sail hard and entertain lightly.

8Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 Catamaran

The Astrea 42 ranks eighth for packing Helia 44 DNA into a more affordable 41-foot package. Its 1,000-square-foot sail plan and 9.5-ton displacement deliver lively performance. The raised helm and sunken cockpit create a secure social area. Three or four cabins are available. Twin 30hp Volvo Penta engines cruise at 7 knots. The 2017 model sold strongly to charter fleets and private owners alike.

This cat suits couples and small families wanting manageable size without sacrificing sailing fun. It trades tankage and storage for lighter weight and lower dock fees. Against the Excess 15 above, the Astrea is smaller but more proven and easier to handle short-handed. Against the Lagoon 40 below, it offers better performance but slightly less interior volume. It remains a smart entry into bluewater catamaran ownership.

9Lagoon 40 Catamaran

The Lagoon 40 takes ninth for offering the brand's signature comfort and build quality at the most accessible price in the range. At 39 feet, it features a flybridge helm, 800 square feet of sail area, and three or four cabins. Twin 29hp Yanmar engines cruise at 6.5 knots. The 400-liter fuel capacity suits coastal cruising. Interior headroom reaches 6 feet 7 inches throughout.

This cat targets first-time catamaran buyers and charter companies needing economical fleet boats. It trades speed and offshore range for ease of handling and low maintenance. Compared to the Astrea 42 above, the Lagoon 40 is smaller and slower but simpler to own. Compared to the Bali 4.1 below, it offers more traditional layout but less open space. It is the safest resale bet in its size class.

10Bali 4.1 Catamaran

The Bali 4.1 rounds out the list at tenth for bringing the brand's open-space concept to a 40-foot platform at an entry-level price. The tilting saloon door and forward cockpit create a 300-square-foot living area. Sail area measures 800 square feet. Twin 20hp Yanmar engines cruise at 6 knots. Three cabins sleep six. The 400-liter fuel tank suits coastal and island cruising.

This cat suits budget-conscious buyers who want maximum social space and modern styling. It trades sailing performance and offshore capability for volume and affordability. Compared to the Lagoon 40 above, the Bali 4.1 is more open but less refined and slower under power. Compared to the Astrea 42, it costs less but offers fewer bluewater credentials. It works best for day sailing and coastal charter.

How we ranked these

We scored each 2017 catamaran on four weighted pillars: build quality and hull construction (30%), sailing and motoring performance across wind ranges (25%), livability including berth count, headroom, and storage (25%), and owner-reported reliability plus warranty support (20%). Data came from sea trials, factory spec sheets, owner forums, and dealer interviews. Prices were normalized to base MSRP with standard equipment.

We deliberately ignored dock appeal, brand prestige, and cosmetic finishes, because glossy gelcoat and a famous badge do not predict how a boat handles a squall or holds up after five seasons. We also excluded resale projections, since 2017 values were still settling. Charter-fleet spec boats were judged only on their consumer-available configurations.

What to look for

Match the boat to your dominant use case first. A lightweight performance cat like an Outremer or Seawind rewards sailors who cross oceans, while a Fountaine Pajot or Lagoon rewards families who anchor and entertain. Check bridgedeck clearance, payload capacity, and whether the galley is up or down, because those three choices shape daily life more than any brochure photo.

The mistake most buyers make is falling for a spacious salon at a boat show and never sailing the shortlist in 20-plus knots. Heavy displacement and low bridgedeck clearance cause slamming that ruins long passages. Insist on a sea trial in real conditions, verify engine hours and saildrive seals on used hulls, and budget 10-15% of purchase price for immediate refit.

Related questions

What is the best 2017 catamaran for bluewater cruising?

The Outremer 45 and Seawind 1160 Lite lead for bluewater work, thanks to light displacement, high bridgedeck clearance, and daggerboards or minikeels that improve upwind tracking. The Lagoon 450 and Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 are more comfortable but heavier, so they slam more in steep chop. Match the boat to your route before the layout.

How much does a 2017 catamaran cost?

Base prices in 2017 ranged from roughly $300,000 for a 38-foot production cat to over $1.2 million for a loaded 60-footer. A Lagoon 40 started near $350,000, a Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42 near $450,000, and an Outremer 45 near $700,000. Options, sails, and electronics routinely add 20-30%.

Which 2017 catamaran holds its value best?

Lagoon and Fountaine Pajot models hold value well because charter demand keeps used inventory moving. Outremer and Seawind hold value in the performance niche but sell slower. Condition, engine hours, and sail age matter more than badge. A well-maintained 2017 Lagoon 450 often resells within 5-10% of its original base price.

Are 2017 catamarans good for charter management?

Yes. Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, and Leopard dominate charter fleets, so parts, service, and crew familiarity are widespread. Charter programs typically offset 30-50% of ownership cost through revenue, but they restrict your personal use and add wear. Read the buyback terms carefully, because early exit penalties can erase the savings.

What size catamaran is best for a family of four?

A 40- to 45-foot catamaran gives four people private cabins, two heads, and enough payload for provisions and toys. The Lagoon 42, Fountaine Pajot Astrea 42, and Leopard 45 are proven in this range. Going smaller saves money but crowds living space; going larger adds cost and dockage without much benefit for four.

Do 2017 catamarans have daggerboards or fixed keels?

Most production cats use fixed minikeels for simplicity and shallow draft. Performance builders like Outremer, Seawind, and Atlantic Catamarans offer daggerboards, which improve upwind and light-air speed but add complexity and risk if grounded. Choose boards only if you prioritize sailing performance and accept the maintenance.

What engines came in 2017 catamarans?

Most 40- to 45-foot cats used twin 30-45 hp saildrives from Yanmar or Volvo Penta. Larger models stepped up to 57-80 hp. Saildrives are compact but demand annual seal and oil checks. Shaft drives last longer but cost speed and space. Verify saildrive bellows age on any used 2017 hull.

Is a 2017 catamaran a good first boat?

It can be, if you take courses and start with a manageable size. Cats are stable, forgiving, and easy to dock with twin engines. A 38- to 40-foot used model is a sensible entry point. The risk is buying too much boat too soon, so charter a few models before committing to a purchase.

FAQ

What is the best overall 2017 catamaran?

The Lagoon 450F wins for overall balance of space, build consistency, and resale. The Fountaine Pajot Helia 44 is close behind with better sailing manners. For pure performance, the Outremer 45 takes the crown. There is no single winner, because the right boat depends on whether you prioritize comfort, speed, or value.

What is the best value 2017 catamaran?

The Leopard 40 and Lagoon 40 deliver the most boat per dollar, with solid construction, proven charter history, and strong parts availability. The Seawind 1160 Lite offers better sailing for a modest premium. Value means low total cost of ownership, not just a low sticker price, so factor in maintenance and resale.

How fast can a 2017 catamaran sail?

Performance cats like the Outremer 45 can hit 15-20 knots in strong reaching conditions. Cruising cats like the Lagoon 450 typically average 7-9 knots on passage and top out near 12. Realistic daily runs are 150-200 nautical miles for cruisers and 200-250 for performance models, depending on weather and load.

What should I inspect on a used 2017 catamaran?

Check saildrive bellows and seals, standing rigging age, chainplate corrosion, trampoline condition, and gelcoat crazing around deck hardware. Run both engines under load and inspect sail shape. Hire a marine surveyor with catamaran experience, because surveyors who only know monohulls miss bridgedeck and bulkhead issues.

How many berths does a 2017 catamaran have?

A 40- to 45-foot cat typically offers three or four cabins plus two heads, sleeping six to eight. Owner versions trade a charter cabin for a larger master suite. Four-cabin layouts suit charter and large families; three-cabin owner versions suit liveaboard couples who want storage and comfort.

Can a 2017 catamaran cross the Atlantic?

Yes. Production cats cross the Atlantic regularly on the ARC and similar rallies. Prepare the boat with reinforced rigging checks, spare parts, watermaker, and adequate fuel range. Light, well-sailed cats make the crossing in 14-21 days. Heavy, overloaded cats are slower and less comfortable in squalls.

What is bridgedeck clearance and why does it matter?

Bridgedeck clearance is the vertical gap between the water and the underside of the cabin. More clearance reduces slamming in waves and improves comfort and speed. Performance cats run 30-36 inches; some cruising cats run under 24 inches and pound badly upwind. Always test in chop before buying.

Which 2017 catamaran is best for liveaboard life?

The Lagoon 450F and Fountaine Pajot Saba 50 offer the best liveaboard comfort, with large galleys, ample refrigeration, and generous tankage. The Helia 44 balances comfort and sailing. Liveaboards should prioritize storage, water and power capacity, and ventilation over raw speed or dock presence.

How much maintenance does a 2017 catamaran need?

Budget 5-10% of the boat's value annually for maintenance, plus haul-out every 18-24 months. Two engines, two saildrives, and larger deck area mean roughly double the systems of a comparable monohull. Antifouling, rigging checks, and sail service are the biggest recurring costs.

Should I buy a 2017 catamaran new or used?

By now, 2017 hulls are used, so compare them against newer models. A well-maintained 2017 boat often costs 30-40% less than new and has already absorbed depreciation and warranty fixes. New boats offer modern electronics and customization. Inspect used hulls carefully and budget for immediate upgrades.

Sources

• https://www.lagoon-catamarans.com
• https://www.fountaine-pajot.com
• https://www.outremer.com
• https://www.seawindcats.com
• https://www.leopardcatamarans.com
• https://www.cruisingworld.com
• https://www.sailmagazine.com
• https://www.yachtingworld.com
• https://www.multihullcompany.com

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